Action Starts Today in Regina
Eighteen doubles teams are set to begin play Thursday evening at 7:00PM at the Tartan Curling Club in Regina. One team will emerge as the champion and then go on to represent Saskatchewan at the Nationals in Saskatoon at the end of March. Teams are divided into 3 pools of 6 and will play five games. The top team from each pool and then three teams with the next best record will advance to Sunday’s playoffs. The champion will be declared on Sunday with the Finals’ time decided after any tie break requirements are determined.
Leading the field are Saskatchewan’s very first provincial champions from 2013. The Ashley Quick and Mike Armstrong duo are eyeing a second title. Another notable wishing to earn that green jacket includes defending 2015 champion Sherry Just with new partner David Schmirler. The duo of Nancy Martin and Dustin Kalthoff, who have been previous provincial and national finalists, are playing with new teammates. Nancy is curling with Catlin Schneider while Dustin has paired up with Sherry Anderson.
A few new rule changes have been introduced this season. The initial rock placement is now back four foot rather than back button, there is the option for the one time Power Play which essentially is a corner guard set up and the person in the house has the option to hold the broom or to be with thrower for sweeping. Mixed Doubles is a fast and exciting game. Eight ends normally take about 75 minutes to play and with rocks already pre-positioned, ends build up very quickly.
Click here for the complete listing of teams and draw times. 2016 Mixed Doubles Media Release
